Ask Phoebe: There's a wait for Wainui Rd ramps

The south-bound lanes on the Northern Motorway packed with cars. Photo / File

At the risk of sounding repetitive, can you provide a further update on the timetable for work to begin on the two south-facing ramps attached to Wainui Road on the Northern Motorway? You pointed out some time back that the ramps were associated with the granting of consent for stage two of the Millwater development in Silverdale. According to the Millwater website, stage two is sold out but we are yet to witness start of any work on the new ramps. Alasdair Scott, Orewa.

To clarify a point, I have been advised that construction of the ramps is required before stage three of the Millwater development, not stage two.

The timing and building of the ramps is the responsibility of the developer, and they must meet the standards of NZ Transport Agency which will pick up responsibility on completion.

A Millwater spokesman says the ramps are two to three years away but are already in the design phase. There are several large construction projects to be finished first, but after that, and completion of the often protracted consent and approval process for the ramps, work on them will begin.

Could you tell us what is being built on the harbour side of the Northwestern Motorway between Pt Chevalier and Patiki Rd? Margaret Donald, West Auckland.

The work behind the screens on SH16 (east of the Rosebank on-ramp) is part of an environmental trial connected with the NZ Transport Agency's plans to raise and widen this section of the motorway for the Western Ring Route. The causeway passes through the Motu Manawa-Pollen Island Marine Reserve and the trial will help find ways to upgrade the motorway without damaging the environment.

The trial includes a 50m temporary causeway. During the $6 million trial - begun in January and due to finish last month - marine life in the reserve is being monitored.

Construction of the 4.2km causeway upgrade between Waterview and Te Atatu should start next year. The $270 million project includes upgrading the Rosebank and Patiki interchanges, treating of stormwater runoff, bridge widening and improving the cycleway and pedestrian facilities on the Northwestern. All this is scheduled to be finished in 2017.

* Sharon Hunter of Auckland Transport has advised there was an error in last week's item about AT Hop cards. To clarify, there will be a free change out period from October for NZ Bus customers with a Hop Snapper card who also use rail. Go to maxx.co.nz/trainchanges for updates.